Chill Out and Heat Up: The Ultimate Wellness Experience on Resorts & Cruises

Chill Out and Heat Up: The Ultimate Wellness Experience on Resorts & Cruises

Wellness travel is having a serious moment, and if you haven't tried alternating between hot and cold therapies, you’re missing out. Imagine soaking in soothing hot springs or steaming saunas, then diving into an ice-cold plunge pool that shocks your system into total refresh mode. The hot and cold combo does wonders for your body, from boosting circulation to helping with muscle recovery, all while clearing your mind. It's like a full-body reset and trust me, it feels amazing.

I didn’t truly get the magic of hot and cold therapies until I took my first cold plunge on a cruise. I was scared like, terrified. It was a tiny 5x5x5 foot pool of ice-cold water, and I had to inch my way toward it, preparing myself. I finally took a deep breath and plunged straight down all at once. The cold shocked my system completely, but the crazy thing is, I felt so good afterward. My whole body felt awake and energized. I never thought I’d enjoy that chill factor, but now? I’m a total convert.

The process itself is simple but incredibly effective. First, you relax in hot stations like natural hot springs, hydrotherapy pools, or dry saunas. These get your muscles to relax and detoxify your body. Then, you take a plunge into cold treatments whether it’s a chilly plunge pool, cold water shower, or even a cool igloo room full of ice. The temperature flip is what makes this experience so incredible, leaving you energized and totally rejuvenated.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Hot-and-Cold Wellness Session

If this whole hot-and-cold thing sounds a little intense, don’t worry—here’s how to do it like a pro:

Start with the Warm Stuff: Begin with all the warm treatments to get your body prepped whether that’s soaking in hot springs, enjoying a sauna, or trying an aromatherapy steam room. Let your muscles relax and ease into the experience.
Finish with the Cold: After you’ve warmed up, it’s time to take the plunge into the cold. Whether it’s an ice-cold pool or a cold shower, it’ll shock your system and leave you feeling totally refreshed and energized.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Warm treatments can leave you feeling a little dehydrated, so drink plenty of water before, during, and after your session. Your body will thank you for it.
Ditch the Jewelry: Leave your rings and necklaces behind for this one. Hot treatments can make metals feel uncomfortable, and cold plunges will have you second-guessing wearing anything with a bit of weight.
Listen to Your Body: If you’re feeling dizzy or like the cold is too much, don’t push it. Take a break and let your body adjust. This is all about feeling good, so take it at your own pace.
Go Back and Forth: For the best experience, alternate between the hot and cold treatments. A little heat followed by a cold plunge does wonders for your circulation and detoxifies your body. It’s the ultimate wellness hack!
Take Your Time: Don’t rush. Enjoy the heat, then dive into the cold, and let yourself really embrace the benefits. The more you relax, the better it works.
Avoid Heavy Meals Beforehand: Skip the heavy meals before you hit the spa. It’ll help your body focus on the experience rather than trying to digest that big lunch you just had.
Consult Your Doc if You Need to: If you have any health conditions, especially with your heart or circulation, check in with your doctor before diving into these temperature shifts.

Where to Go for the Ultimate Hot and Cold Experience

If you’re ready to dive into this hot-and-cold wellness journey, here are some must-visit spots:

Domestic Destinations:

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs and Spa Resort (New Mexico, USA) Known for its natural hot springs and cold plunge pools that provide the perfect balance for a rejuvenating experience.
Castle Hot Springs (Arizona, USA) This exclusive resort offers both thermal pools and ice-cold plunge pools, perfect for a full-body reset.
The Omni Homestead Resort (Virginia, USA) A historic gem with hot springs and cold plunge pools that’ll leave you feeling completely revitalized.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort (Colorado, USA) Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, this resort offers hot springs and cold plunge pools that are perfect for your wellness journey.

International Destinations:

Blue Lagoon (Iceland) Famous for its geothermal waters, this spa also features cold plunge pools for the ultimate contrast between hot and cold.
Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa (Costa Rica) Located near Arenal Volcano, this resort offers a variety of thermal pools and cold plunge experiences to boost your wellness.
Polynesian Spa (New Zealand) Soak in therapeutic thermal pools and take a cold plunge to fully refresh your body and mind.
QC Terme Bagni di Bormio (Italy) Set in the stunning Italian Alps, this luxurious spa offers a perfect mix of hot and cold experiences.

Cruise Ships
If you’re cruising, don’t forget that many ships now offer their own version of a thermal spa. From saunas to hydrotherapy pools, plus ice-cold plunge pools, you can enjoy the ultimate wellness experience while sailing the seas. It’s like a spa vacation and cruise all in one!

With these simple tips and amazing spots to visit, you’ll be ready to experience the ultimate wellness reset. Whether you're on a cruise or staying at a resort, make sure to embrace both the heat and cold you won’t regret it!

Loving what you're reading?
Get The Travel Thread Weekly delivered to your inbox every Sunday.

Brown